ABB Robotics has launched E-Device, a compact safety interface that enables customers to use their own tablet or computer to operate, program, and monitor robots and cobots equipped with OmniCore. Developed in the OmniCore user interface (UI), E-Device offers users an intuitive robot interaction experience with full functionality, featuring physical safety controls tailored to whether they are using a tablet, a computer, or the robot’s programming controller.
“Making robots more accessible and easier to use is at the heart of our path toward more autonomous and versatile robotics (AVR),”said Marc Segura, president of ABB Robotics. “Customers are looking for ways to customize and create, quickly and easily, solutions that can adapt and scale as their needs change, without having to spend time learning to use new interfaces or programming.” E-Device gives them the freedom to interact with robots using their own tablets or computers. “Thanks to a consistent user experience across all robots and cobots equipped with OmniCore, customers can reduce training needs, simplify commissioning, and accelerate production ramp-up,” he added.
The uniform OmniCore UI reduces training needs and helps streamline commissioning across ABB’s lineup of robots and cobots. Customers can access ABB Robotics’ growing set of programming tools, including RobotStudio, an offline programming and simulation software, and AppStudio, a no-code tool for creating application-specific screens, enabling them to develop, simulate, and customize applications off the production line before connecting the device to the robot, thereby speeding deployment and startup.
Compatibility
Together, E-Device and OmniCore UI enable a seamless transition from simulation to commissioning. Users can develop and offline simulate a robot program in the office and then take the same tablet or computer to the production line to deploy it. The mobile end-device lets users quickly switch between different robots equipped with E-Device, providing flexibility and making the solution especially useful in multi-robot installations and training environments. The solution reduces engineering and commissioning lead times and speeds up production ramp-up.
Smart-device compatibility also opens new opportunities to future-proof readiness. Internet connectivity provides immediate access to online resources, such as manuals, while the built-in cameras allow users to capture images to aid troubleshooting and save them directly to the robot’s backup folder.
E-Device integrates the necessary physical safety controls for manual robot operation, including an emergency stop button and a three-position enable switch. E-Device complies with the new ISO 10218:2025 safety standards and carries CE and UL certifications, helping customers prepare for the next generation of safe automation.
